Oleksandr Usyk vs. Deontay Wilder Picks, Odds, and Preview (2026)

One of the biggest fights in the heavyweight division could be officially formalized before the end of the calendar year, as Oleksandr Usyk has revealed that his ‘first option’ to defend his World Heavyweight championships is American star Deontay Wilder. You can find the odds and our early picks for the potential clash here.

Odds

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Deontay Wilder: Tale of the Tape

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Deontay Wilder: Event Information

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Fight Preview

One of the world’s biggest fights for 2026 could be announced before the end of the calendar year after Usyk revealed his intention to step into the ring with Deontay Wilder next year.

It is a shock turn of events for the sport, as many expected Usyk to defend his title against Fabio Wardley, who recently saw his WBO belt upgraded. However, it would appear as though the Ukrainian wants to cement his place as this generation’s greatest heavyweight by taking on the one established rival that he is yet to step into the ring with.

Usyk has already twice beaten Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, and Wilder is the other notable heavyweight that is regarded as one of this generation’s best. The reigning lineal champion hasn’t been in the ring since stopping Daniel Dubois in July to become a two-time undisputed champion.

Usyk showed his respect for Wilder by claiming that he is a ‘world champion guy’. However, Wilder will need to reignite his career after his form fell off a cliff following successive defeats against Fury.

Since the second loss, he has subsequently suffered losses against Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang, before finally getting back to winning ways in June with a TKO win over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon. But, this is a step back into the elite level, and he has major questions to answer.

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Deontay Wilder Picks

Usyk has earned the right to call his shot after proving his dominance in the heavyweight division.

However, instead of taking on one of the mandatory challengers, he will look to affirm his legacy with a victory over one of the sport’s biggest names.

Wilder’s power will ensure that this is a major bout, but his form since the start of 2020 will give him little chance against the pound-for-pound king in the ring.

Free Pick:

• Oleksandr Usyk